Arsenal has emerged as a leading contender to secure the services of Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.

The Gunners’ interest in the 28-year-old has intensified in recent weeks, as they seek to strengthen their midfield options ahead of the new season.

Real Sociedad's Mikel Merino celebrates scoring a goal during the UEFA Champions League last 16 second leg football match between Real Sociedad and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the Anoeta stadium in San Sebastian on March 5, 2024. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino celebrates scoring a goal during the UEFA Champions League last 16 second leg football match between Real Sociedad and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the Anoeta stadium in San Sebastian on March 5, 2024. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Merino, fresh from his triumphant Euro 2024 campaign with Spain, is reportedly open to a move to the Premier League. Arsenal’s appeal lies in their willingness to meet Real Sociedad’s asking price of €30 million upfront, a crucial factor as the Spanish club looks to capitalise on Merino’s contract, which has only one year remaining.

While Barcelona also holds an interest in Merino, their pursuit is hampered by financial constraints and their focus on securing other targets like Nico Williams and Dani Olmo.

Atletico Madrid is another potential suitor, but their hesitancy to meet Real Sociedad’s valuation and their ongoing pursuit of Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher have put them at a disadvantage.

Spain's midfielder #06 Mikel Merino celebrates after winning the UEFA Euro 2024 Group B football match between Spain and Croatia at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on June 15, 2024. (Photo by CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP via Getty Images)
Spain’s midfielder #06 Mikel Merino celebrates after winning the UEFA Euro 2024 Group B football match between Spain and Croatia at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on June 15, 2024. (Photo by CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP via Getty Images)

Arsenal’s interest in Merino is further fuelled by their desire to reshape their midfield dynamics. Merino’s potential arrival could see Declan Rice deployed in a more advanced role, utilising his attacking capabilities. Additionally, with Thomas Partey entering the final year of his contract and the club open to offers for him, Merino could be viewed as a long-term replacement for the Ghanaian international.

The Gunners’ need for midfield reinforcements is further underscored by the departure of Mohamed Elneny and the potential exit of Emile Smith Rowe. Merino’s experience and versatility would provide valuable depth and tactical flexibility to Mikel Arteta‘s squad.

Spain's midfielder #06 Mikel Merino addresses a press conference of Spain's national football team, ahead of the UEFA Euro 2024 European football Championships, in Donaueschingen, on June 12, 2024. (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)
Spain’s midfielder #06 Mikel Merino addresses a press conference of Spain’s national football team, ahead of the UEFA Euro 2024 European football Championships, in Donaueschingen, on June 12, 2024. (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)

Merino is reportedly evaluating all offers on the table, but Arsenal’s financial commitment and the prospect of playing in the Premier League could sway his decision. The Gunners’ pending acquisition of defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna signals their intent to strengthen the squad significantly, and Merino’s signing would be another statement of intent.

Merino is expected to return to Real Sociedad after his post-Euro break on August 5.